LONDON – Arsenal faced a formidable challenge this season when they encountered a well-structured team at Craven Cottage, an experience reminiscent of their previous struggles at this venue. The Gunners collected a crucial 1-0 victory over Fulham, maintaining their position at the top of the Premier League standings.

The performances of Eberechi Eze and Viktor Gyokeres were notably pressed in this match. Both players found it difficult against a defensive setup that left little room for maneuvering. Arteta’s boys had minimal success breaking through the defensive lines, which made both players’ contributions vital yet frustrating.

Eze often found fleeting moments of space, only to be swiftly thwarted by defenders, highlighting the need for improved mobility to exploit overloads against such defenses. His challenges echoed similar experiences from his time at Crystal Palace, where space was often at a premium.

As the match unfolded, the effective press from Marco Silva’s Fulham caused unease in Arsenal’s backline, leading to several near misses. Despite their struggles, Arsenal was able to rely on their strengths in set-piece situations, converting a corner via Gabriel Magalhaes to seal the win.

Arteta reflected on the match, stating that Eze’s skills are best utilized in open play, yet he recognized Eze’s moments of potential, underscoring Arsenal’s ability to adapt their attacking strategy against stubborn defenses. As teams seek to emulate Arsenal’s tactical efficiency, the Gunners’ approach to exploiting corners remains unmatched, evidenced by their impressive tally of goals from set pieces since the inclusion of their set-piece coach.

In conclusion, while Eze and Gyokeres faced a baptism of fire against Fulham, Arsenal’s robust tactics and reliance on set pieces offered a reliable avenue to victory, serving as a reminder that creativity and adaptability are essential in high-stakes matches.